I save all kinds of jars in my kitchen, and pasta sauce jars are some of the most useful. For this project, I turn five old glass jars into simple fall luminaries with twine, pressed leaves, and warm candlelight. They are inexpensive, easy to personalize, and just the sort of craft that makes a table, mantel, or front step feel instantly more seasonal.
If you are the kind of person who likes low-mess projects with a big payoff, this one is for you. I especially like this craft because it uses familiar household materials, and the glass gives the candlelight a lovely glow that reminds me of the amber tones you get in a good autumn soup simmering on the stove.
Materials
Instructions
1. Wash the five jars in warm soapy water, remove all labels and adhesive, and dry them completely with a clean towel.
2. Wipe the outside of each jar with a little rubbing alcohol so the glue adheres well to the glass.
3. Pour a small amount of decoupage glue into a bowl, then sort your faux leaves into five sets so each jar gets a balanced mix of color.
4. Brush a thin coat of glue onto the back of one leaf and press it onto the side of the first jar, smoothing from the center outward.
5. Add four more leaves around the jar, slightly overlapping some edges if needed, and leave enough clear glass between them for the candlelight to shine through.
6. Brush a light sealing coat of glue over the attached leaves, then set the jar aside and repeat the same process for the other four jars.
7. Cut five lengths of twine, each about 24 inches long, and wrap one piece around the neck of each jar two to three times.
8. Tie the twine into a snug bow or square knot on each jar, then trim the ends so they look tidy but still a little rustic.
9. Let the jars dry for at least 1 hour, or until the glued leaves feel secure and the surface is no longer tacky.
10. Place one LED tealight inside each jar and test the glow in a dim room, adjusting the jars so the prettiest leaf sides face outward.
11. Arrange the five luminaries together on a mantel, dining table, or entry console, spacing them a few inches apart for the nicest light.
Variations & Tips
Use real leaves: If you want a more natural look, use pressed real leaves instead of faux ones. Make sure they are fully dry and fairly flat so they adhere smoothly.
Choose LED candles: I strongly recommend LED tealights for this project. Old kitchen jars are sturdy, but faux leaves and twine are best kept away from open flame.
Add a frosted glow: For softer light, brush a very thin coat of decoupage glue over parts of the bare glass as well. That gives the jar a slightly hazy, lantern-like finish.
Coordinate your colors: I like mixing deep rust, golden yellow, and muted red because it feels balanced and classic. If your room runs more neutral, try tan, cream, and brown leaves with darker twine.
Make them centerpiece-ready: Set the five jars on a narrow tray with mini pumpkins, acorns, or a little dried wheat around them. It turns a quick craft into a very polished seasonal display.
Clean jars thoroughly: Any oil residue from sauce can interfere with glue, so do not skip the alcohol wipe. In cooking and crafting alike, clean surfaces make all the difference.